ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Saim Ayub surprisingly included in Pakistan squad despite injury concerns

Speculation surrounding young Pakistan opener Saim Ayub’s inclusion in the provisional squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has been circulating. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to take the bold decision to include Saim Ayub in the provisional squad for the Champions Trophy.

The deadline for teams to submit their preliminary squads for the Champions Trophy is January 12. All teams must submit their 15-member provisional squads by February 12, with no technical committee clearance required. The International Cricket Council (ICC) will release the submitted squads only on February 13.

Pakistan Selectors Consider Including Saim Ayub in Preliminary Squad

According to Geo News, Pakistan's selectors are considering including Ayub in the preliminary squad for the Champions Trophy despite concerns over his injury. Ayub fractured his ankle during the second Test against South Africa. The left-handed batter is currently receiving treatment for his injury in England.

Saim is expected to be out for up to six weeks. If he doesn't recover in time, the Pakistan Cricket Board could request a replacement player from the tournament's technical committee. In case Ayub is unavailable, alternatives like Abdullah Shafique or Imam ul Haq are ready to take his place in the squad.

Teams can make changes to their squads until February 11 without needing ICC approval. After this date, any changes will require mandatory approval from the ICC Technical Committee. The PCB should have no issues making a replacement for Saim in the Pakistan Champions Trophy squad if necessary.

Saim Ayub's Injury Has Dealt A Blow To Pakistan's Plans

Saim's injury has dealt a blow to Pakistan's plans for the upcoming Champions Trophy, as the young left-hander had become a promising addition to the team's top order. The selectors will closely monitor his recovery while keeping backup options ready.

Ayub scored several centuries on recent tours, which have solidified his place in the squad. Pakistan will next play a two-Test series against the West Indies and a tri-series with South Africa and New Zealand in February, leading up to the Champions Trophy, which starts on February 19 in Pakistan and Dubai.

Saim Ayub Is A Valuable Asset To Pakistan Cricket - Mohsin Naqvi

Following the directives of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Saim Ayub has been sent to London for specialized ankle treatment. Accompanied by assistant coach Azhar Mahmood, Ayub traveled from Cape Town to London on January 7.

Dr. Muhammad Faisal, the High Commissioner in London, is overseeing Ayub's medical treatment to ensure the best care. PCB Chairman Naqvi expressed commitment to Ayub’s recovery, recognizing him as a valuable asset to Pakistan cricket and hoping for his swift return to the field.

Mohsin Naqvi emphasized, “Saim Ayub is a valuable asset to Pakistan cricket, and we are committed to providing him with every resource for his recovery. We pray for his speedy return to the field.”

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